Gut microbiota development across the lifespan: Disease links and health-promoting interventions

Abstract

The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in human life and undergoes dynamic changes throughout the human lifespan, from infancy to old age. During our life, the gut microbiota influences health and disease across life stages. This review summarizes the discussions and presentations from the symposium “Gut microbiota development from infancy to old age” held in collaboration with the Journal of Internal Medicine. In early infancy, microbial colonization is shaped by factors such as mode of delivery, antibiotic exposure, and milk-feeding practices, laying the foundation for subsequent increased microbial diversity and maturation. Throughout childhood and adolescence, microbial maturation continues, influencing immune development and metabolic health. In adulthood, the gut microbiota reaches a relatively stable state, influenced by genetics, diet, and lifestyle. Notably, disruptions in gut microbiota composition have been implicated in various inflammatory diseases—including inflammatory bowel disease, Type 1 diabetes, and allergies. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests a connection between gut dysbiosis and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Understanding the role of the gut microbiota in disease pathogenesis across life stages provides insights into potential therapeutic interventions. Probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary modifications, as well as fecal microbiota transplantation, are being explored as promising strategies to promote a healthy gut microbiota and mitigate disease risks. This review focuses on the gut microbiota's role in infancy, adulthood, and aging, addressing its development, stability, and alterations linked to health and disease across these critical life stages. It outlines future research directions aimed at optimizing the gut microbiota composition to improve health.